Big Four Bridge: Filled with Life

2014 brought a much-needed addition to connectivity for Louisville, Kentucky & Jeffersonville, Indiana. The Big Four Bridge was completed in its entirety to a pedestrian bridge, which is a former railroad bridge dating to 1895. Louisville residents have access to the historical downtown of Jeffersonville & the residents of Jeffersonville have access to the waterfront park in Louisville.

The Big Four Bridge was a welcomed addition to the city of Louisville through the connectivity between Waterfront Park & River Road. This one project provides a boost to the area by showcasing the one area the city truly requires…..pedestrian friendliness.

The Big 4 Bridge was a welcome addition to the city of Louisville & Jeffersonville, but it can be approved. Currently allowing for an enjoyable stroll over the water on bike or foot, along with benches scattered about.

Currently the ideology fits perfectly with what the project was meant to achieve, crossing. I say expand on the existing ideology by creating a space with multiple visions, i.e, inspiration, life, adventure, relaxation, & observation.

When experiencing the historical rail bridge, one should be flooded with a sanctuary field with flora & fauna. A place of continuous life, of constant stimulus. Feet should be embraced by the comfort of foliage, instead of merely concrete.

The space should be divided into relaxation & determination. A path for the person that needs to get to Jeffersonville for an appointment or a cozy nook for a person to sit & read a book.

Figure 2: The walkway provides insight into what awaits people as they cross the Ohio River…..A journey.Figure 3: Crossing the bridge, people are greeted with inspiration, life, adventure, relaxation, & observation.

3 thoughts on “Big Four Bridge: Filled with Life”

Overall the bus system (TARC) is solid. One major drawback would be the connecting routes, which at times are rough. For the city to grow in a sustainable way, it must invest in an improved transit system, e.g., light rail, personal rapid transit, ect. See my article ‘Louisville’s Need for Mass Transit’ for a better explanation.